Is Weight-loss Surgery For Me?

DL dietitian and diabetes educator Dr. Kate Marsh explains exactly what weight-loss surgery involves, and the benefits, risks and important post-surgical considerations

- Dr Kate Marsh

You know that carrying excess weight is a risk factor for type 2 diabetes, and that losing weight can help to manage your diabetes. You’ve put some lifestyle changes in place to help with preventing or managing diabetes, but are still struggling to lose those excess kilos. Could weight-loss surgery be an option?

BENEFITS FOR PEOPLE WITH DIABETES

In 2016, international guidelines on weight-loss surgery for type 2 diabetes were published and endorsed by 45 worldwide medical and scientific societies, including the Australian Diabetes Society. The guidelines support the inclusion of weight-loss surgery among treatment interventions for people with type 2 diabetes who are carrying excess weight.

The guidelines recommend weight-loss surgery for treatment of type 2diabetes in those with a body mass index (BMI) ≥ 40 kg/m 2, regardless of their blood glucose levels and diabetes medication needs. Surgery is also recommended for those with a BMI of 35-39.9 kg/m 2 whose blood glucose levels remain high despite lifestyle changes and optimal medical therapy. For those with a BMI of 30-34.9 kg/m 2 whose blood glucose levels remain high despite optimal medical treatment, it is recommended that surgery is considered as a treatment option.

These recommendations were made based on a growing body of evidence showing that weight-loss surgery can improve blood glucose levels and reduce cardiovascular risk factors in people with type 2 diabetes. Surgery frequently reduces medications and, in some cases, may result in remission.